Addictively Salty, Deliciously Sweet – Firecracker Popcorn

Firecracker popcorn came about many years ago as a treat for my family while we watched the fireworks on the 4th of July.  I was looking for something salty/sweet with a kick of heat to fit the holiday.  My daughter told me tonight that “I knew how to work magic with white chocolate, salt, and cayenne”.  This from a 20 yr. old that hates anything spicy.

Firecracker Popcorn

2/3 c popcorn seeds, popped

1 t salt

1 – 10 oz package Reese’s Pieces

1 c. whole almonds

1/2 t cayenne pepper

12 oz. white chocolate chips (or candy coating), melted

Spread the popped popcorn on a large baking sheet, sprinkle the salt, cayenne, Reese’s Pieces, and almonds over it.  Pour the melted white chocolate over the baking sheet of popcorn and candy and “smoosh” it into the popcorn, candy, and nuts.  (“smooshing” is a very technical term where you use a rubber scraper or spatula and press the popcorn into the melted chocolate).  Continue doing this until all the popcorn, candy, and nuts are covered with a bit of the white chocolate.

Allow to the white chocolate to set up and harden then break into chunks and serve.

NOTE:  if you use vanilla candy coating, you don’t have to “smoosh” as much because the candy coating melts to a more smooth consistency and is a bit thinner.